By GEORGIA WHITELEY – 17 October 2024

A church overflowing with people young and old.

St Catherine of Siena reached full capacity as it celebrated its 20^th anniversary Mass last Sunday.

Parish Priest, Father Peter Brannelly says the celebration was a recognition of the hard work over last 20 years from the people of Sippy Downs in creating a “vibrant Catholic community”.

The morning was made especially memorable with the Archbishop of Brisbane, Mark Coleridge, celebrating the Mass.

Fr Peter says having the Archbishop preside over the Mass added to the significance of the occasion.

“Having the Archbishop showed recognition of the St Catherine’s community and the hard work put into building the church from scratch,” Fr Peter said.

The Anniversary Coordinator, Sue Bennett says it was an honour to have the former Parish Priest, Fr Joe Duffy present at the Mass, who stayed behind afterwards to catch-up with parishioners.

“It was a highlight to have the Archbishop acknowledge that it was because of his vision that we now have a beautiful church built on the Sippy Downs site,” she said.

Fr Peter said it was Fr Joe’s “vision and foresight” that brought forth the land for the St Catherine’s Primary School and Siena College.

The early Mass was followed by breakfast and an array of home-baked goods put together by the numerous volunteers.

Mrs Bennett says she was very pleased with the turn out of the day and there were many people who worked hard to make the day special.

“Everything ran to plan and it was wonderful to see parishioners who had moved on to other communities coming back to join us,” she said.

Fr Peter says Siena Church is a young and forward looking community, full of involved families.

Sue Bennett says she’s glad parents feel comfortable to bring their babies and young children to Mass each Sunday.

“We get to see them grow up and we enjoy them wandering around during the Mass,” she says.

“Our children are the future of our church.

“Our youngest baby got to cut the cake with the Archbishop.”